Hermiston, Oregon – As the Columbia Development Authority and the Oregon Military Department hosted a memorial service on March 21, 2024, to remember the 80th Anniversary of a tragic 1944 munitions explosion at the former Umatilla Army Ordnance Depot that claimed the lives of six workers, a somber atmosphere enveloped the gathered crowd. The event, which honored the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives in service of their country, was attended by representatives, community members, and descendants of the deceased.
During the ceremony, Oregon State Rep. Greg Smith, speaking on behalf of the Columbia Development Authority, emphasized the importance of recognizing the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice, even though the cause of the explosion decades ago remains unknown. Tributes were paid to Harry D. Sever, Hiram Cook, Kenneth L. Fraser, William Sanders, Alice Wolgamott, and Lance Stultz, whose lives were tragically cut short in the accidental explosion that occurred on a fateful evening in 1944.
A tribal prayer offered by Raymond Huesties of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the area affected by the explosion. The ceremony continued with a poignant prayer led by Oregon National Guard Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott, who honored the memories of the six individuals who perished in the tragic incident eighty years ago.
As a part of the memorial service, members of the Oregon National Guard participated in the ceremony, presenting colors and playing music in remembrance of the fallen individuals. A wreath was placed at the former site of the explosion as a symbol of respect and remembrance, marking the solemn occasion with a moment of silence led by Chaplain Scott.
The service also included a procession back to the Rees Training Center, where a memorial plaque stood in memory of the victims of the explosion. State Sen. Bill Hansell reflected on the region’s history and the impact of the tragic event, emphasizing the significance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Over the years, the former Umatilla Army Ordnance Depot, now known as the Raymond F. Rees Training Center, has undergone transformations, serving different purposes as part of the Oregon Army National Guard Regional Infantry Training center. The site’s complex history, from its origins as a military munitions and supply depot during World War II to its closure and subsequent reinvention, captures a significant chapter in the region’s past.
The memorial service served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals in service of their country, urging the community to never forget the contributions and legacies left behind by those who gave their lives in the line of duty. As attendees paid their respects and reflected on the past, the event underscored the importance of honoring the memories of the fallen and preserving the historical significance of the site for future generations.